Moscow throws out Latvian diplomat in tit-for-tat exchange

Russia has expelled a Latvian diplomat for what it calls activities incompatible with his diplomatic status. The move comes just days after a similar expulsion of a Russian diplomat from the Baltic state.

The Russian foreign ministry says the diplomat's actions have been detrimental to Russia's national security, and has informed the Latvian officer he will need to leave the country within two days.

Moscow has also stressed it hopes Riga won't take new steps undermining relations.

The incident echoes a similar exchange in 2004, when Latvia expelled a Russian embassy worker for alleged spying. Russia followed suit by deporting a Latvian diplomat on the same charges.